Last Updated on April 2, 2023 by Soularize01
If you’re a cat owner and also love using Palo Santo for its pleasant aroma, the thought may have crossed your mind whether it’s safe for your furry friend. Palo Santo, a sacred wood found in South America, has been commonly used for its benefits such as clearing negative energy, enhancing meditation, and relaxation. However, like with anything, there are risks to consider, especially when it comes to your pet’s safety.
What is Palo Santo?
Palo Santo, also known as “Holy Wood,” comes from trees of the Bursera family and is found in Peru, Ecuador, and some other South American countries. The wood is typically harvested from naturally fallen trees and left to cure for four to ten years before use. It is often used in ritual ceremonies, for its calming and grounding effect and as an insect repellent due to the smell of a chemical compound called limonene.
Is Palo Santo Safe for Cats?
As much as we love our cats, it’s challenging to keep track of what they’re eating or licking at times, which can be dangerous if it’s something harmful. According to the ASPCA, Palo Santo is toxic to cats due to the aromatic oil, limonene, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and liver damage. If your cat shows any signs of discomfort or reacts adversely, it’s best to take them to the vet immediately. You can also make sure to store your palo santo safely out of your pet’s reach.
How Can You Use Palo Santo Safely?
Although it’s not safe to expose your cats to palo santo, you can still use it safely in your home. Here are some tips on how to use palo santo in a way that won’t harm your cats:
• Keep palo santo out of reach: Like with any other hazardous material potentially harmful to pets, it’s best to store palo santo in a safe place where your cats can’t reach.
• Use a diffuser: Using a diffuser with palo santo essential oils is a great way to enjoy the beautiful aroma without exposing your cats to the toxic fumes.
• Limit the burning time: If you’re burning palo santo, keep the window open and limit the burning time to prevent exposure to harmful chemicals for an extended period.
FAQs
Q. Can humans be affected by Palo Santo?
A. Palo Santo is considered safe for humans and can be used to promote relaxation and calmness.
Q. What are the benefits of Palo Santo?
A. Palo Santo is known for its calming properties, aiding with better sleep, reducing stress and anxiety, and reducing inflammation.
Q. What are the signs of palo santo poisoning in cats?
A. Vomiting, diarrhea, and liver damage are some of the signs of palo santo poisoning in cats.
Conclusion
Palo Santo may have significant health benefits, but it’s crucial to keep in mind that it’s toxic to cats. The best way to ensure your cats are safe is to keep plao santo out of reach and use it with safety measures, such as using a diffuser or limiting burning time.
Always keep an eye on your furry friend and take them to the vet if you suspect anything. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of Palo Santo without compromising your cat’s safety.